Media Release - Mpumalanga tourism condemns attacks against tourists

Mpumalanga Tourism, 09 May 2018

The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) condemns the increased attack on tourists visiting the province especially during this Easter holiday season. There has been an increased number of incidents recorded lately that has left tourists being hijacked and robbed of their valuables while visiting various parts of the province.

The recent incident is of the British star Katie Price who was attacked and robbed around the Chrissiesmeer area while en-route to Swaziland with her family and crew on March 29, 2018. Price and her team were attacked after stopping at a turn off towards Lothair. It is believed that Price was in South Africa to film for her TV series.

“We are concerned about these attacks as they impact negatively on tourism in the province. Such incidents impact negatively on the country as a whole. As a province we are working hard to promote a safe destination where tourists can have the opportunity to explore the offerings of the province and have memorable experiences without being attacked or harmed in any way”, said Mr Johannes Nobunga CEO of MTPA.

“We call upon the South African Police Services (SAPS) as well as various community policing forums to be vigilant and to work closely with members of the community in key crime hot spots in order to enable tourists to enjoy their stay in the province without fear of becoming victims of crime” commented Nobunga.

The South African Police Services in the area are currently investigating the case. No suspects have been apprehended at this stage although keys of stolen vehicles were found on the scene. The MTPA has been working with the local tourism industry stakeholders to provide the victims with the necessary after care support.

Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of these perpetrators can contact Sergeant Skhosana of Chrissiesmeer SAPS on 082 346 4315